Indiana Pork Industry Guidance: COVID-19 Event


Indiana State Board of Animal Health

Animal Health Advisory

 

22 April 2020

Indiana Pork Industry Guidance: COVID-19 Event

This month, several pork processing plants across the country have been forced to close or reduce production due to the COVID-19 pandemic. This disruption in the pork supply chain is forcing many swine producers to hold onto market-ready pigs.

The Indiana State Board of Animal Health (BOAH) would like to provide producers with resources for this situation, and making decisions about adjusting production and/or reducing the herd size.

BOAH reminds producers animal welfare is a top priority. Animal pens should not be overcrowded, and pigs must continue to be fed appropriately. Herd-reduction methods must be carried out in a humane manner, and carcasses must be disposed of appropriately.

Approved methods for carcass disposal in Indiana include: rendering, burial, incineration and composting. More information online: www.in.gov/boah/2363.htm

The National Pork Board published a Farm Crisis Operations Planning Tool in March. This guide provides guidance on managing swine operations during any crisis that disrupts the pork supply chain.

The Pork Checkoff library has resources for producers including humane euthanasia, carcass disposal and more.

The American Association of Swine Veterinarians has resources for veterinarians and COVID-19 response: www.aasv.org/Resources/publichealth/covid19/index.php

Other Coronavirus-related Resources

BOAH COVID-19 resources: www.in.gov/boah/2905.htm

Indiana State Department of Health: www.coronavirus.in.gov

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Sent to you by:

Denise Derrer

Public Information Director

Indiana State Board of Animal Health

Phone:  317-544-2414

Email:  dderrer@boah.in.gov

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